Big Mac Salad: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Favorite

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Introduction

If you love the flavors of a Big Mac but want a healthier, lighter version, the Big Mac salad is the perfect solution. Lina Vexley, a food stylist and creative chef, was inspired by the iconic fast food burger to create this vibrant salad. She wanted to capture the same delicious, satisfying flavors without the heaviness of a traditional burger. This salad includes all the signature elements of a Big Mac—crisp lettuce, pickles, onions, and a creamy dressing—combined in a refreshing, easy-to-make salad. It’s perfect for those who crave the taste of a Big Mac but are looking for a lighter option.

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big mac salad

Big Mac Salad

This Big Mac Salad brings all the flavor of the iconic burger in a healthy, refreshing salad form. It’s loaded with crisp veggies, savory beef, and a delicious Big Mac-inspired dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Salad Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground Beef
  • 4 cups Iceberg Lettuce shredded
  • 1 medium Tomato diced
  • 1/2 cup Pickles sliced
  • 1/4 small Red Onion sliced
  • 1/4 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Big Mac Sauce (or Thousand Island dressing)
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat.
  • In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, sliced pickles, and red onion.
  • Add the cooked ground beef to the salad and toss everything together.
  • Top the salad with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with Big Mac sauce or Thousand Island dressing.
  • Toss the salad gently to combine, and serve immediately.

Notes

This Big Mac salad can be customized by adding other ingredients like bacon or avocado for extra flavor. You can also swap the dressing with a low-fat option if preferred.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3.5mg
Keyword Beef, Big Mac, healthy
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How to Make the Recipe

This Big Mac salad brings all the great flavors of the iconic burger into a healthy, refreshing salad. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 7-10 minutes until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat to keep the salad light.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef is cooking, shred the iceberg lettuce, dice the tomato, slice the pickles, and thinly slice the red onion.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sliced pickles, and red onion. Once the ground beef is cooked, add it to the salad.
  4. Add Cheese and Dressing: Top the salad with shredded cheddar cheese, and drizzle with Big Mac sauce (or Thousand Island dressing).
  5. Toss and Serve: Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients. Serve immediately for a fresh, delicious meal!

This Big Mac salad can be made ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunchiness of the lettuce.

Conclusion

The Big Mac salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic Big Mac flavors in a healthier, lighter form. It’s quick to make, full of fresh vegetables, and packed with protein from the ground beef. Whether you’re craving the taste of a Big Mac or simply want a delicious and filling salad, this dish is a great choice. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a fun twist on a traditional salad at your next gathering. Enjoy all the flavors you love in a lighter, more refreshing way!